Gemotions

The photographer's flash seemed to sear across her vision. Clara shifted from foot to foot, the polished floor cold beneath her. The air conditioning was on full blast, but she felt a heat rising from the pit of her stomach, radiating outward. Her mother’s knowing gaze felt like a weight.

She'd promised herself she wouldn’t cry. But as she began speaking, a tremor passed through her. Each word felt like a physical exertion. The room was a bright, boisterous soundscape, but she couldn’t focus. The memories, the unspoken grievances, the love – it was all too much.

She blinked rapidly, fighting back tears. Her father, sensing her distress, subtly squeezed her hand. She managed a watery smile and kept going. This was for them.